Chicken noodle soup

Chicken noodle soup is a classic and comforting dish, perfect for warming up on a cold day or when you’re feeling under the weather. Here’s a basic recipe for homemade chicken noodle soup:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound (about 2 cups) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 8 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
• 2 cups water
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or use fresh parsley if available)
• 2 cups egg noodles or your choice of pasta
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and water, and add the bay leaf, dried thyme, dried parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Add the chicken breasts or thighs to the pot. Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
5. Remove the cooked chicken from the pot and shred it into bite-sized pieces using two forks.
6. While the chicken is being shredded, bring the soup back to a simmer and add the egg noodles or pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until the noodles are al dente, usually around 7-10 minutes.
7. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and let it heat through for a few minutes. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
8. Remove the bay leaf from the soup.
9. Serve the chicken noodle soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley or dill if desired.

This homemade chicken noodle soup is hearty and soothing. It’s a versatile dish, and you can customize it by adding extra vegetables like peas or corn or by using different types of pasta. Enjoy it as a comforting meal any time of the year!